Method and apparatus for playing games

Abstract

A system and methods of playing wagering games of chance in which a player receives points based on game play, the points being usable toward either a cumulative jackpot or entry into another game which may be a game of skill or chance. In one example, a system and method for a 'double chance' game links progress in a second game to the results of a first game. A player receives a chance at playing the second game based on winning or losing the first game, thereby providing the player with two chances to win for one entry into a game session. A player participating in the first game receives points, based on a result of the first game, that may be used to play a second game or may be redeemed for one or more prizes, as discussed below. The points may embody the player's chance for winning the second game. In one example game format, the points may be awarded for 'losing' the first game, thereby providing a dual incentive to a player to play the game—the player may achieve the game's payout by winning the game or may accrue points by losing the game. In such a manner, a player's interest in playing the first game may be increased because of additional chances to win offered by the second game (or selection of prizes) associated with the points the player receives during play of the first game.